Basque Pelota in the European Space... Towards a Sociological use of the Notions of Sporting Evolution and Diffusion

Abstract

Diffusion of the Basque sport, Pelota, has progressed beyond the anthropological borders of the Basque people. In addition to spreading throughout Spain and France, pelota has come to the attention of Belgians and Italians. This situation is analyzed using data collected via surveys, interviews, documentary studies and cartographic studies. Four main dimensions appear germane to an understanding of this development: a strong expression of a community spirit, a federal politics of equipment, affinitary recompositions and cultural transnationalism. This empirical study allows to consider a more theoretical aspect relative to the use of the notions of sporting evolution and diffusion. A sociological frame of reference constructed around the four repertoires: expressiveness, communication, efficiency and competition shows under which conditions a traditional game transforms itself into a modern sport.